Search Google Appliance

Navigation

FCS

Nutrition, Dietetics, and Food Science

The Nutrition, Dietetics and Food Science (NDFS) option at CSUN combines the application of physical, biological, and social sciences to create an outstanding foods and nutrition program.

The Nutrition, Dietetics and Food Science programs at CSUN emphasize the application of physical, biological, and social sciences to the study of foods and nutrition. The Nutrition and Dietetics area (Pattern A) educates students in the knowledge of food and nutrition as they relate to health issues, and prepares graduates in the field of nutritional science as registered dietitians and nutritionists for private businesses, hospitals and nursing homes, pharmaceutical companies, public health agencies, and government agencies.

The Food Science area (Pattern B) applies the study of biology and chemistry to understand the nature of foods, the causes of their deterioration and the principles underlying food processing. Students in the program also study institutional food management. Graduates in the field are prepared to work as food scientists and food technologists in quality assurance, and research and development for food companies. Other career options include working for government agencies and restaurant and food service management.

Coursework Information:

Undergraduate Food Science students are required to participate in off campus placements/internships in food industry to fulfill the requirement for FCS 494/I. Internships are available in quality assurance, product development, and food service. Students must have achieved upper division status in food science, have completed either FCS 302 of FCS 401, and have the permission of the instructor.

Undergraduate Nutrition and Dietetics students, as well as graduate students completing the Didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD), are required to participate in the Peer Nutrition Counseling (PNC) internship, FCS 494/I. Students develop skills in marketing nutrition services, providing health screening, performing nutritional assessment and counseling, analyzing the nutrition-related information, and documenting nutritional services, as well as understanding the Nutrition Care Process in delivery of care.

Nutrition services are provided at Klotz Student Health Center, the CSUN Living Well Lounge (LWL), and the Student Recreation Center. Our students also provide counseling services at various community college health centers throughout LA and Ventura counties. Students must first complete FCS 402, and have the permission of the instructor in order to enroll in PNC.

Advisement:

All students in the Nutrition, Dietetics and Food Science option get guidance from faculty advisors, who help students select courses that will lead to a more timely completion of the degree. Course selection is geared toward opening doors to promising careers.

There are many opportunities for leadership, internships, networking, and potential lifelong professional relationships abound in the program. As part of the program, students fulfill an academic internship, gaining experience in their chosen careers.